Growing Pains

When your kids come to you complaining of knee pain, do you just blame it on growing pains?  Maybe that’s what it is…but maybe not.  Sure we have all heard the term, but most people don’t really understand what it is or why kids get it.  Growing pains are relatively common and it has been estimated to occur in 20-40% of kids.  It is most common during periods of growth and is usually associated with increased physical activity.  While it is common, there is no clear diagnostic testing to confirm that pain is just “growing pains.”  Usually growing pains are diagnosed when no other cause of the pains have been found.  Growth does not actually cause pain, but one possible theory behind it is that muscles can ache as they try to keep up with the bone growth.  

There are some common musculoskeletal problems that can occur that are often confused with growing pains.  Growing pains occur with no known cause, so a workup is important in order rule out some of these other problems.  Most other problems have some form of management to reduce symptoms.  Osgood Schlatter’s and Sever’s disease are often considered growing pains even though they really aren’t.  They are usually related to tight muscles in the legs that cause abnormal stresses on the bones.  Other potential problems that can cause pain are contusions, stress fractures, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and strains.  In these cases there are specific signs on a physical examination that can indicate a specific pathology.  The diagnosis of growing pains is given when these other problems are ruled out.  This is why it is important for “growing pains” to be properly assessed as incorrect diagnosis can lead to prolonged symptoms and more time away from their normal activities.

If growing pains are suspected, it’s a good idea to get examined by a healthcare professional experienced in these types of problems.  Some methods that have been used to reduce the occurrence of growing pains are to maintain proper flexibility during growing.  With this in mind, it’s better to make sure flexibility is good before problems even start.  Massage of painful areas or heating pads can also be helpful in reducing pain.  If the diagnosis of growing pains is confirmed by your healthcare professional, it can be helpful for the parent and child to understand that it is a benign diagnosis and self limiting.  There are generally no long lasting effects, and it will run its course usually ending in the teenage years.